Lay associates

What is a lay associate..

"A lay Associate is a person who feels a calling from God to lead a contemplative and spiritual life in the world, a life modeled on the wisdom of Cistercian values and practices, and who seeks a community of like-minded people.."

This definition comes from the Cistercian family website. A Bernardine associate may not have the same form of life as a Cistercian associate or oblate even. For us this is a new venture, Hyning associates, people who have a special link with us and wish to deepen their spiritual connection. At the moment it is by invitation only as we look to discern ways to share our Bernardine Cistercian charism. Each associate discerns with one of the sisters the way God is calling them to live out their association and there will be regular retreat days during the year.

Several of our associates have now made their commitment as oblates for one year. Jeff Hirst, Peter Ellicot, Andrew Markham, Margaret Moyse, Terry and Marion Middleditch made their promises on Thursday 10th December. Several of the lay associates were there to support them as well. Harold Taylor joined them on Saturday 12th December. Both ceremonies took place at Midday Office with a short word from Sr. Josephine Mary before the oblates made their promises for 1 year. Then Maureen Calnan made her promise on the 22nd December. It was a simple but lovely ceremony and we are very glad to welcome them officially to our extended Bernardine family. Here are some pictures of the ceremony.

Rollover the mouse on each image to highlight it!

My journey into the faith began when I was received into the Roman Catholic Church. It continues now as I begin to discover the Benedictine way with others who are exploring the oblate life with me. Although there are times when it is difficult, it is a life enhancing experience. And knowing that we have the prayers and love of the Sisters at Hyning is immensely encouraging. To those who might be wondering whether to join us I would simply say: "Come and see."

Frances Dawburn

"Having visited the Sisters at Hyning on a number of occasions and been to Retreats conducted by them, we were particularly attracted by the spirituality of the Bernardines. This is based on the Rule of St Benedict and the writings of the Cistercian Fathers and Mothers.

We approached the Sisters to see if it would be possible to form some attachment to the Community whilst living outside the monastery. We now visit Hyning on a regular basis and under the guidance of the Sisters are sharing in their charism by prayer and spiritual reading.

After a period of formation, we are hoping to become Oblates of the Order."

Andrew Markham, Jeff Hirst

Why I chose the 'Oblate journey'.

"All my adult life I have happily concentrated on being a good and diligent Martha as a wife, mother and teacher. Now that I am older I recognise that I need a better balance in my spiritual life.

I want to be a Martha and a Mary, spending more time sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to Him. I believe that being an Oblate will provide the support, structure and discipline I need to acheive this goal."

Maureen Calnan

Loving God - St Bernard